Maltipoos are known for their adorable appearance. Not only that, they are also loved by many due to their lovely personality. They are charming and easygoing and these facts make them one of the most favored breeds to be taken care of.
However, if there is another pet in the house, such as a cat, is it possible for a Maltipoo to fit in? Actually, there is nothing to worry as it is also known to get along well with the other pets as long as they are trained and treated well.
In order to make a Maltipoo and another pet like a cat to get along well, the way you introduce them to each other plays an important role. If you introduce them well, the chance of them to get along with each other and share the same place even though they are different is high. If you are considered new to this and have no idea what should you do, check out the guide to introduce a Maltipoo to a cat below:
- Start slowly and do not start right away
A lot of people introduce a Maltipoo to a cat right away, which is completely wrong. For those who have just purchased or adopted a Maltipoo, hold on and do not show it in front of your family of pets. While you may think that introducing them to each other as soon as possible is better, it is actually not as the Maltipoo is still new and is still trying to get used to the place itself. For the new dog or puppy, everything will feel strange and weird. Depending on its age and history, forcing it into a situation where there is another pet may backfire.
In order to prevent this kind of thing from happening, you are suggested to keep both the Maltipoo and the cat in different rooms. Make sure to keep these two separate for a week or so. Allow the dog or puppy to be familiar and comfortable with your place first and then start introducing it to the cat. Once again, it is never alright to start everything right away as it can make them aggressive and or nervous.
- Start it in a comfortable setting
Maltipoos like an environment that is comfortable. This kind of situation can be found in the dog bed or in the place where they sit during the day. The best place to socialize them with a cat is in a setting that they like. In this kind of place, they will feel comfortable. When they are comfortable, they will be able to welcome the cat easily.
However, it does not always work well. Even if the setting to meet a cat is already comfortable, it is still possible for a Maltipoo to show signs of nervousness. If you see any kinds of signs, do not freak out. It is normal and it is okay. Keep calm and do not panic. Let the dog or puppy deal with it and see if it manages to get rid of its nervousness. If it does not overact, continue watching the interaction and keep getting close to them.
- It is important to maintain full control during interactions
Socializing is not instant. It takes time and dedication. It will be needed for you to maintain full control during the initial interactions. During the process, you can use a pet gate and a leash. Do not forget to keep an eye on every interaction. Keep in mind that the main focus is to retain control while observing how they interact. If they are doing well, feel free to loosen the restrictions. For instance, if you use a dog leash, you can get rid of it.
- It is better to use dog treats
Building positive reinforcement for good behavior is recommended to socialize a Maltipoo with a cat. Dog treats can be the answers to work with this breed. There is no doubt that they will respond well to these treats and it tends to work especially if you manage the time well during the interactions with the cat. For instance, if a Maltipoo behaves well and remains gentle when a Maltipoo enters the same room as a cat, reward it with a dog treat. On the other hand, if it is not, just say the word “No!” to make it realize that it is wrong. While the dog or puppy may not get it at first, it will learn and it will get it the next time you do that as this breed is known to be very smart. In addition to the dog treats, you can also reward the Maltipoo with some other things, such as a simple rub behind the ears or scratch under the chin.
- Do not overact
Just like the Maltipoo and the cat, as an owner, you may also be nervous of what is going to happen when you introduce them to each other. While it is normal, try to stay calm. Do not think of aggression or anything bad. Stay positive. Even if there is aggression when they meet, stay still and do not overact. If you overact, the Maltipoo will go into a bubble that is hard to break. It is possible for it to not want to interact with the other pets as it is afraid.
Once again, be confident and assertive. If a Maltipoo misbehaves, let it know that it is not alright to do that. While telling it, do not show aggression and or yank on its leash if one is on. If you overact, it will feed off the reactions that you are given, even if your intention is good. Staying calm and going through the process will make everything go well. Keep trying until these two become familiar with each other and get along well.
It can be not easy to introduce a Maltipoo to a cat. Patience, determination, and the willingness are important to make adjustments throughout the process. While it can be hard, you surely can do it.
